Omni- directional weight-bearing support assistive device

ABSTRACT

The present invention may provide a support assistive device for a user having a frame assembly ( 1 ), a vertical pelvis support element ( 2 ) connected to the frame assembly which may primarily support the ischial tuberosities ( 34 ), and a horizontal pelvis support element ( 3 ) which may primarily support the anterior superior iliac spines ( 35 ) of a pelvis ( 1   a ). It may provide such support with minimal or no hand or arm support. By supporting on the anterior superior iliac spine ( 35 ) on either side, a moment can be created to assist in turning even without the use of hands by simply turning the direction of the pelvis ( 1   a ). The created moment of the present invention is more natural to the user in turning the pelvis and as a result the device. The present invention may also provide a fluidic braking assembly ( 53 ) for any rotatable elements ( 48 ), which can be advantaged to assist a user in supplying an increase of force to actuate the braking action. The braking system may be actuated from a single station or multiple stations and may provide braking in any direction the wheels are turned, that is, omni-directionally. It may also include a elevation assembly ( 5 ) that can assist lowering of an upper frame assembly ( 6 ) to a corresponding elevation with a lower frame assembly ( 4 ) to assist in packaging and in transportation. It may also provide a rotatable swivel lock system ( 54 ) for the rotatable elements ( 48 ) that may be restrained in various orientations, and may be controlled through a single station.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Generally, this invention relates to the field of medical supportassistive devices. Specifically, the invention focuses upon concentratedvertical and horizontal support in certain bony structures of the bodyto assist and support a user in ambulation of medical support assistivedevices.

Background Art

[0002] The medical field of medical support assistive devices isgenerally well known. Many patents through the decades have been focusedupon this particular area. Generally, the patents focus upon restrainingsupport of different areas of the body depending on the differentcapabilities of the user. For instance, U.S. Pat. No. 4,312,505 toEnglehart, entitled “An Invalid's Wheeled Walker”, shows a beltrestraining above the waist of the user with padded arm supports tosupport the body. U.S. Pat. No. 5,058,912 to Harroun, entitled“Combination Chair/Walker”, shows a wheeled device with a crotchsupporting “diaper” arrangement. Other references show various methodsof supporting the user, aged an infant to an older adult. Some of theseassistive devices are stationary requiring a user to lift the apparatus,walk, and then set it down to recover for the next step. Others aremobile in that they contain rotatable elements such as wheels, casters,rollers, and so forth by which the user ambulates. Generally, thesedevices fall in three categories. The first category are those deviceswhich require the user to support his body, in some cases, with only anarm rest or arm support. Thus, the arms can tire frequently as the userambulates. The next category requires the user to be strapped in andheld typically about the chest, waist, or fixed about a large portion ofthe hips. This type of restraint can be intimidating for some users,uncomfortable for others, and can produce chaffing and skin irritation.Other supports are for the more physically disadvantaged, in that theuser is not able to support his weight, and must rely upon either othersto assist the person in his ambulation or upon power-operated movementsuch as a battery powered wheel chair. One example of a commercialassistive device is known as the Arrow Walker developed overseas byTheraplay Limited in Kelwinning, Scottland, and is sold in the U.S. byTriad, Inc., from Cumberland, Md. It advertises that it helps children“experience the joy of independent movement.” However, in viewing thedepiction of the product, even it does not appear to rely upon pelvicmovement, but relies upon arm and hand support and movement to ambulate.The pelvis does not appear to be engaged in a frontal horizontal plane;instead, the upper chest is saddled. Another example of a commerciallyavailable embodiment is known as the U-step made in the U.S. by In-StepMobility Products Corporation of Skokie, Ill. It again is of the typethat relies upon arm and hand support to assist the user.

[0003] In reviewing the available references, it is apparent that a gapis missing in the field of support assistive devices. The gap is filledby the present invention. The gap that is missing includes the abilityto allow a normal gait of a user, who is able to at least partiallysupport his weight, without the use of, or the substantial use of, handsor arms to support the user's weight. The may be done selectively byconcentrated and limited engagement of the user's pelvis. Furthermore,the device may assist the user in changing elevations through powerassistive systems and may include rotatable elements, such as wheels, animproved braking system, and a swivel lock system.

[0004] This area of improvement has heretofore gone unnoticed in spiteof a long felt need and the long available arts and elements. What issurprising is that the present invention fills the gap even though thefield is crowded with a wide variety of devices and improvements.Certainly, those in the art appreciated that a problem existed inattempting to make more comfortable and useful assistive devices, yetapparently failed to appreciate the solution. With the field crowded, itmay be apparent that those skilled in the art made substantial attemptsto fill the need, but were unsuccessful in achieving what the presentinvention accomplishes. In contrast, the apparent direction of the artwas to teach away from the technical direction of the present inventionin that, among other aspects, generally the direction was to supportmore rigidly more area of the body, not less, as the present inventionteaches. Furthermore, the present invention is unique in its combinationof results from what some could consider simple and available elements.Actually, this direction resulted in the unexpected results of thepresent invention in that focused and limited support could be made andyet allow a user to be supported even in case of a lapse intounconsciousness.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present invention involves a unique awareness of key supportareas that allows a user to ambulate without undue restriction. Itrecognizes the importance of supporting primarily at two bony structuresof the body, restrains the pelvis in a limited fashion, and enables theuser to walk, turn, and raise and lower with minimal or no arm and handinvolvement. The two primary bony structures of the pelvis used in thepresent invention typically may be the ischial tuberosities and theanterior superior iliac spines. A typical person using the devices willhave two of each, unless through some physical disability or surgery,they have been removed or otherwise might not have the f all support ofboth bony structures. The invention could work in some degree for eventhose individuals without both ischial tuberosities and both anteriorsuperior iliac spines. The present invention realizes a key is tosupport in these focused areas and not to restrain in the other areasthat typically were taught in the art. This focused engagement allows alarge degree of movement, comfort, and ambulation. When used with anelevation assembly, the present invention may allow variableweight-bearing that can encourage physical conditioning as well asassist people with permanent disabilities. Its present structure canreduce falls, increase mobility and day to day functionality, and assistin returning to the work force.

[0006] One object of the present invention is to provide a supportassistive device for a user having a frame assembly, a vertical pelvissupport element connected to the frame, and a horizontal pelvis supportelement supporting primarily the anterior superior iliac spine of a l opelvis. One goal of this object is to provide such a device that assistsin improving the gait stride of the user as well as a forcing element toassist the user in weight-bearing and in elevation adjustments. Anothergoal is to provide the improved gait with minimal or no hand or armsupport. Another goal of this object is to support primarily the ischialtuberosities while supporting anterior superior iliac spines. FIG. 6shows with specificity the locations of the anterior superior iliacspine and the ischial tuberosities using a skeletal model. Noteworthy inthis invention is the recognition that by supporting the ischialtuberosity, located behind the center of gravity of the body, a forwardmoment may be created. This forward moment may be counteracted bysupporting the anterior superior iliac spine in a forward position,located in a frontal plane of the body. Thus, the two sets of supportsoppose each other. This tends to allow full support without thesubstantial use (or even no use) of hands or arms to support the body.Also, noteworthy is the fact that by supporting on the anterior superioriliac spine on either side, a moment can be created to assist in turningeven without the use of hands by simply turning the direction of thepelvis. In other inventions, this frontal support to counteract themoment created by supporting the ischial tuberosities is most oftenprovided by the hands or arms. In the other inventions, also, the handsand arms may be used to create a turning moment to the device. Bycontrast, the created moment of the present invention is more natural tothe user in turning the pelvis and as a result the device. This movementmay generally be available without the use of hands, arms, and so forthin direct contrast to such products as the Arrow Walker and U-Step andothers. Such support allows freedom of movement for the user and mayallow the hands and arms unencumbered to perform other tasks. Anothergoal of this object is to provide a fluidic braking assembly for anyrotatable elements, which can be advantaged to assist a user insupplying an increase of force to actuate the braking action. Othergoals are to provide a single station that could brake a plurality ofrotatable elements and to provide braking in any direction the wheelsare turned, that is, omni-directionally. Another goal of this object isto provide a device that could be lowered to a corresponding elevationwith a lower frame assembly to assist in packaging and intransportation. Another goal is to provide a rotatable swivel locksystem for the rotatable elements that may be restrained in variousorientations, and may be controlled through a single station.

[0007] Another object of the present invention is to provide a supportassistive device having a frame assembly, a vertical pelvis supportelement, and a horizontal pelvis support element that supports primarilyin the forward position and at a separate elevation or location from thevertical pelvis support element. A goal of the present invention is toallow the pelvis to be supported with a left and right support elementwhich may act independently of each other. Another goal of the presentinvention is to provide a biasing element to bias the pelvis toward thepelvis support while vertically supporting the pelvis primarily at afirst or lower bony structure and while horizontally supporting thepelvis in a forward position at a second bony structure in a frontalplane of the pelvis. A goal of the invention is to provide elevationadjustments commensurate with the appropriate locations of supportingthe bony structures. A further goal of the present invention is toprovide a support assistive device having a plurality of rotatableelements and a fluidic braking assembly to brake the rotatable elements.Such a goal could include the advantaging of the braking assembly toassist the user in actuating the brakes. It could also include a singlebraking station and a swivel lock system to include a plurality ofrotatable elements.

[0008] A further object of the present invention is to provide a lowerframe assembly and an upper frame assembly with a plurality of rotatableelements such that the upper frame assembly may be horizontally lowered(or otherwise change elevations) to a corresponding elevation with thelower frame and may include the rotatable elements folding within theenvelope of the frame.

[0009] Still, a further goal of the invention is to provide a supportassistive device with a lower frame assembly, an elevation assembly toassist in elevation adjustments, and an upper frame assembly. The upperframe assembly could include a vertical pelvis support element, ahorizontal pelvis support element to support at least one anteriorsuperior iliac spine, and adjustment elements to adjust the proximity ofthe vertical pelvis support element with respect to the horizontalpelvis support element. One goal could include providing a forcingelement such as a pressurized cylinder to assist the support elements inadjustments.

[0010] Naturally, further goals and objects of the invention aredisclosed throughout other areas of the specification and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011]FIG. 1 represents a isometric view of the preferred embodiment ofthe invention.

[0012]FIG. 2 represents a detailed assembly drawing of variouscomponents of the present invention shown in FIG. 1 and incorporate theindividual portions of FIGS. 2A-2E.

[0013]FIG. 3 shows a typical user using the support assistive devicewhere the weight may be at least partially supported and yet allow afull striding gait or to otherwise ambulate depending on the user'scapabilities, typically, without relying on hands and arms to supportthe user.

[0014]FIG. 4 shows a user using the support assistive device in alowered position to allow picking up objects from, for instance, a floorand to subsequently return via a forcing element to a desired elevation.

[0015]FIG. 5 shows a user in a unconscious state sufficiently retainedin a support assistive device to avoid falling.

[0016]FIG. 6 shows the two areas of primary contact of the ischialtuberosities and the anterior superior iliac spines using a skeletalmodel.

[0017]FIG. 7 shows a detail of a dual actuated cylinder actuating lever,used in the present invention to actuate the elevation assembly from aplurality of locations.

[0018]FIG. 8 shows the left and right support elements which may operateindependently of each other and may leave a gap between the elements.

[0019]FIG. 9 shows the rotatable elements in a retracted state in asubstantially planer configuration with respect to the frame members.

[0020]FIG. 10 shows the rotatable elements in a similar retractedposition as in FIG. 9 within the envelope of the frame.

[0021]FIG. 11 shows an assembled view of fluidic conduit lines attachedto the rotatable elements to control the swiveling and braking.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0022] The basic concepts of the present invention may be implemented ina variety of ways. It involves the support assistive device, the methodof using the support assistive device, different aspects of the supportassistive device such as braking, weight-bearing, pelvic supporting,swiveling, and folding of the support assistive device. Furthermore,various aspects mentioned above may be applicable to a variety ofdevices and where applicable could include wheelchairs, gurneys, andother devices. Various techniques related to the device and steps areinherent to the utilization. They may simply be the natural result ofutilizing the device as intended and described. In addition, while somedevices are disclosed, it would be understood that these not onlyaccomplish certain methods, but also can be varied in number of ways.Importantly, as to all the foregoing, all of these facets should beunderstood to be encompassed by this patent.

[0023] In regard to general aspects and by referring to FIG. 3, it canbe seen that the present invention allows a user to ambulate with agreat deal of flexibility not achieved in other devices. Also, it may benoted that the weight-bearing support assistive device can vary theweight imposed upon the legs to be commensurate with the supportcapabilities of the user. In some cases, it may even be that the userhas minimal weight upon the legs. This could occur, for instance, if theuser had become disabled in the legs or is recovering from surgery, oris otherwise in a rehabilitation process. It is also apparent by viewingFIG. 3 that by selectively engaging the pelvis as with the presentinvention, the support assistive device can be used without thesubstantial use of hands or arms. In some cases, the user may not havethe capability to use hands and arms, and thus this feature is deemedimportant to some uses of the present invention. A third aspect, inviewing FIG. 3, is that by engaging the pelvis, the user can direct thesupport assistive device by simply rotating the user's pelvis as theuser walks and moves. This movement conforms more naturally to normalmovements and assists the user to direct the device while performingother tasks such as shopping, writing, and other functions. Thisfunction corresponds more generally and more naturally to the functionthat other individuals, without the need for the support assistivedevice, could perform. This aspect is in direct contrast to the otherdevices in the market place which generally require the use of hands andarms in restricted movement to use a device. A fourth aspect, in viewingFIG. 3, is shown in the open front and raised rear structure of thelower frame assembly. Thus, the user has an improved gait capabilitywithout undue restrictions generally found in other devices in themarket place. Also, in reviewing other devices that support the uppertorso, they may tend to restrict the weight transfer that otherwise isbeneficial in initiating walking or moving.

[0024]FIG. 4 shows a user restrained in the support assistive device,yet able to adequately bend at the waist to pick up even small objectsfrom a lower elevation such as the floor. One of the features of thepresent invention is that it engages and supports the pelvis in aminimal area and yet still allows flexibility to the user as isgenerally possible. This flexibility may include bending, turning, andso forth. The device as will be described in detail below, may be raisedand lowered to change elevations using an elevation assembly. Thiselevation assembly may assist the user with the user's weight as theuser changes elevations. Thus, even a user having difficulty with weightmay quickly adjust the elevation using the weight-bearing supportassistive device to perform various functions not normally found inother devices.

[0025]FIG. 5 shows another aspect of the present invention in that eventhough the user is able to freely ambulate, bend over to pick up itemsfrom the floor, and otherwise perform more natural movements, in case ofunconsciousness, the user may be restrained from a fall that couldinjure the user.

[0026]FIG. 6 shows key aspects of the present invention. The presentinvention engages and supports the pelvis (1 a) in primarily two bonystructures typical of pelvic structures. The ischial tuberosity (34) isshown supported by vertical pelvis support element (2) . The anteriorsuperior iliac spine (35) is shown supported by the horizontal pelvissupport element (3). As shown, the right support element (39) supportsthe right anterior superior iliac spine. A mirror image may occur forthe left side of the pelvis (la) and the left anterior superior iliacspine.

[0027] Having described some general aspects and functions of thepresent invention, reference is made to FIGS. 1 and 2 in more detail.The preferred embodiment may have at least the following primaryelements including a frame assembly (1) and a pelvis support which maybe divided into a vertical pelvis support element (2) and a horizontalpelvis support element (3). The term “assembly” is used to mean theoverall structure of the particular element and may includesub-elements, washers, bolts, and so forth or even a unitary element.The term “connected ” includes direct or indirect connection, such asthrough intervening members and is intended to include elements that areresponsive to other elements. Depending on the needs and embodiments,the frame assembly may have rotatable elements (48) attached to it. Thehorizontal pelvis support element (3) is designed to support primarilythe anterior superior iliac spine (34) of the pelvis and may beconnected to the vertical pelvis support element (2), directly or to aportion of the frame assembly. The verb “support”, as used herein, atthe ischial tuberosity and the anterior superior iliac spine, is meantto include support in the proximity of the forward protrusion of theanterior superior iliac spine or the lower protrusion of the ischialtuberosity. This is to allow for some variation in the comfort of theuser to adjust the engagement point slightly above or below or to theleft or right of the most forward protrusion of the anterior superioriliac spine or lower protrusion of the ischial tuberosity. (Obviously,in most cases, the support could be transferred through the interveningtissue, muscle, and fleshy portions to these bony structures.) The term“element” may be a single device or may be composed of multiple devices,such as sub-elements. The term “primarily support” is meant to includethe majority of support needed to accomplish the goals and objects ofthe present invention and to exclude other support that would interferewith the goals and objects of the present invention, and could be incontrast to other devices that, for instance, surround and engage theentire periphery of the pelvis.

[0028] The frame assembly (1) may be made from appropriate materials andmay include a variety of other aspects such as rubberized bumpers,internal mechanisms to be described below, and other features. Onefeature of the preferred embodiment may be that the device may use theinner volume of the frame assembly to hold various components in theinvention such as tubing, brake cylinders, cams, and other features.This allows for a less obtrusive external appearance. Part of the frameassembly (1) includes the lower frame assembly (4), an elevationassembly (5) connected to the lower frame assembly (4), and an upperframe assembly (6) connected to the elevation assembly (5). Theelevation assembly (5) may include a four bar linkage assembly (7) whichassists to maintain a horizontal orientation of the upper frame assembly(6) at different elevations. The four bar linkage assembly (7) is wellknown to those in the art, and may include an upper linkage element (7a) and a lower linkage element (7 b). These may be rotatably connectedto the upper frame assembly on one end and the lower frame assembly on asecond end of each lower and upper linkage element. To assist the userin adjusting the weight-bearing pressure, the elevation assembly mayalso include a forcing element (8). Particularly, in the preferredembodiment, the forcing element (8) may include a pressurized cylinderas is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. The pressurized cylinder may not only beadjustable for elevation and weight-bearing, but may also assists incollapsing and folding the preferred embodiment for transportation andstorage.

[0029] In contemplation of the preferred embodiment, the presentinvention may allow actuation of the forcing element (8) from both oreither side of the upper frame assembly (6) with a left actuation tab(9) and a right actuation tab (10), as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. Ofcourse, the actuation tabs could be positioned at different locations.The location shown may be conducive to hand actuation, but any otheractuation may be accomplished at various locations. The embodiment showncontemplates two tabs, although more or less could be used, as thosewith ordinary skill would naturally understand. In FIGS. 1 and 2, twocables are shown. A left actuator cable (11) and right actuator cable(12) typically are connected to left actuation tab (9) and rightactuation tab (10). Although a cable is envisioned, other devices andmethods could be used, as would be recognized by those with ordinaryskill in the art. The forcing element (8), which for purposes of thisembodiment may be a pressurized gas cylinder, may have a rod (13). FIG.2 also shows an actuator base (14) described in more detail below.

[0030] More specifically, in FIG. 7, the rod (13) may be mounted to theactuator base (14). Also, the left actuator cable (11) and rightactuator cable (12) may be mounted to the actuator base (14) through aleft coupling (16) and a right coupling (17), respectively. An actuatorlever (15) may be attached to the actuator base (14) and may pivot aboutactuator pin (21), shown in FIG. 2. As is customary with cables of thetype shown, an inner wire extends through the outside covering of thecable. This is shown in FIG. 7 as a left actuator wire (18) and a rightactuator wire (19) extending from left actuator cable (11) and rightactuator cable (12), respectively. As shown, the left actuator wire (18)and right actuator wire (19) may directly and independently be attachedto the actuator lever (15). In one preferred embodiment, a pressurizedgas cylinder, having an actuator (20), could be used and engaged by theactuator lever (15) to release the rod (13) and obtain the desiredmovement. Having a plurality of actuation points as described above,that may operate directly and independently, could allow for direct andgenerally less encumbered actuation from a plurality of locations, andappears to be unknown in the market place before the present invention.Each location can directly activate the actuator without necessitatingjunctions and other intermediate transitions. Each location also canactivate, independent of other locations, the actuator lever (15). Whilethe term actuator lever has been used, the concepts could apply to anysystem actuating a pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder. For the purposes ofthis embodiment, a locking gas cylinder may be used for the forcingelement (8). As those with ordinary skill in the art could learn,locking gas cylinders are available in the marketplace as springblocking or rigid blocking. Either could be used with the presentinvention, although the spring blocking type could have an advantage inflexibly moving vertically with the gait of the user's pelvis. Lockinggas cylinders include an actuator that internally releases gas pressureupon actuation. The actuator is depicted in FIG. 2 as actuator (20).Typical brands include Bloc-O-Lift® by Stabilus, as shown, or thosecylinders made by the Suspa or other companies.

[0031] Thus, by understanding the above description, it can be seen thateither actuation tab may be used to actuate the forcing element (8) bymoving its actuator wire in its respective actuator cable. As theactuator wire is moved, the actuator lever (15) pivots toward theactuator base (14) and presses the actuator (20) which actuates thecylinder to assist in raising or lowering the upper frame assembly (6).The advantage of this mode of actuator is that a multiple of actuationtabs may be used from any location conducive to the user or even anassistant to actuate the forcing element (8).

[0032] Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 2, the elevation assembly (5) mayassist in maintaining the upper frame assembly (6) in a generallyconstant pelvic orientation at a variety of elevations. This feature mayassist the support of the user's pelvis in a consistent angle as theelevation changes. For instance, a four bar linkage assembly (7) couldbe used, known to those in the art for maintaining this constancy. Theorientation of the upper frame assembly could be substantially levelwith respect to the plane of the lower frame assembly and the elevationassembly could assist in maintaining that orientation at a variety ofelevations.

[0033] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the lower frame assembly (4) maycontain several elements. A first lower frame element (22) may form abase. It may have twin lengths of tubing or other appropriate structuralforms. Connected to the first lower frame element (22) in the preferredembodiment is a second lower frame element (23). The second lower frameelement (23) may be inclined in an upward manner with respect to thefirst lower frame element (22). By upwardly inclining the second lowerframe element, the propensity of the user's legs to impact the framemembers generally may be reduced and may allow a full striding gait,that is, not unduly hinder the hip rotation of the pelvic joints whilemoving, thus allowing more natural motion. By supporting the body in themanner described herein, the full striding gait may be 35 accomplishedwithout the substantial use of the arms, other than perhaps theoccasional height adjustment or egress or ingress to the device and soforth. In other words, the arms in the preferred embodiment may not benecessary to support or guide the present invention as in other devices.Additionally, a first end (24) between the lower frame element (22) maybe opened for easy access and increased versatility in movement. Asecond end (25) may be closed to support the structure and the secondlower frame element (23) may be elevated or may be upwardly inclined toprovide clearance in the preferred embodiment while the user is walkingor otherwise making a striding gait.

[0034] In the preferred embodiment, the upper frame assembly may beattached to the elevation element. Thus, the elevation element may movethe upper frame assembly as a unit. If the upper frame assembly isconfigured to encompass the vertical pelvis support element and thehorizontal pelvis support element (which in themselves may includevarious sub-elements described elsewhere), then the elevation elementwould correspondingly move these two elements as well. Naturally, thevertical pelvis support element could be configured as a separate partof the device and may be indirectly connected to the upper frameassembly. Likewise, the horizontal pelvis support element could beseparate from the upper frame assembly and may be indirectly connectedto the upper frame assembly. As a further available adjustment, thevertical pelvis support element may be independently adjustable (either“horizontally” or “vertically” or both) relative to the horizontalpelvis support element, even though they may be connected directly tothe upper frame assembly.

[0035] The upper frame assembly (6) may include several sub-elements tosupport the pelvis in a generally vertical manner. This may include thesub-element referred to as the vertical pelvis support element (2). By“vertical”, the term is meant to include any direction that has avertical component, which may not be necessarily in a strict up and downdirection. (Likewise, “horizontal” is meant to include any directionthat has a horizontal component, which may not be necessarily in astrict lateral direction.) Sub-elements of the upper frame assembly (6)to assist in adjustments may include a first upper frame assembly heightadjustment element (27) which may slidably engage a second upper frameassembly height adjustment element (28). Each height adjustment elementmay have its own hole (30 a and 30 b) or set of holes or otherapertures. At least one of the holes from one set is designed to alignwith at least one hole of the other set at various elevations. Once theholes are aligned, a height fixing element (31) may secure therespective position of the first and second height adjustment elements.The height fixing element may be a biased (such as a spring) pinassembly which engages at least one hole. Furthermore, the second upperframe assembly height adjustment element (28) may include notchedindentions (30 c). The notched indentions may be useful to allow theuser to easily push or otherwise disengage the height fixing element(31) away from the holes (30 a). Such notched indentions may provideextra clearance to disengage the pin to assist in making the adjustmentsof the first upper frame assembly height adjustment element (27).Notched indentions could be useful in other arrangements in other jointsof the device for similar reasons. A collar type clamp (31 a) may alsobe used to secure the height of the first upper frame assembly heightadjustment element (27) with respect to the second upper frame assemblyheight adjustment element (28). Other variations for adjustment arecertainly possible. As an example of an alternate embodiment, the upperframe assembly (6) could include a pressurized cylinder for adjustingsimilar to the forcing element (8).

[0036] The vertical pelvis support element (2) may have severalsub-elements to assist in supporting the pelvis. For instance, in thepreferred embodiment, it may include a vertical pelvis supportengagement element (32) and associated mounting tubes, clamps, andhardware, such as may be useful to connect it to the upper frameassembly (6) and to provide its own adjustments. Obviously, it could beconnected to the frame assembly independent of the upper frame assembly.The vertical pelvis support engagement element (32) may be shapedsimilar to a bicycle seat. Generally, it may be a support surface thatwould be of comfort to the user and yet allow a full striding gait,where the user may be capable of such gait, and generally would bedesigned to support primarily a lower bony structure of the pelvis suchas the ischial tuberosity. Typically, the vertical pelvis supportengagement element (32) may be located in an upper area of the verticalpelvis support element (2). To aid in flexibly allowing movement of thevertical pelvis support engagement element (32), a flexible element (32a) may be used. This flexible element may include a coil spring, leafspring, pressurized cylinder, or other device that would flexibly allowmovement as the user ambulates. Located in proximity to the verticalpelvis support engagement element (32) may be an adjustable tilt angleelement (33). As shown in FIG. 2, the adjustable tilt angle element (33)may include a slot and angular or curving members that allow thevertical pelvis support engagement element (32) to be repositioned todifferent angles for the user's comfort.

[0037] Referring to FIG. 6, the vertical pelvis support element (2) inthe preferred embodiment may primarily support a first bony structure.More specifically, it primarily supports at least one of the ischialtuberosities (34) with the vertical pelvis support engagement element(32). The horizontal pelvis support element (3) may be adjustablerelative to the vertical pelvis support element (2). It may beadjustable “vertically” or “horizontally” relative to the verticalpelvis support element. For instance, to accomplish a generallyhorizontal adjustment, a relative adjustment element (36), such as ascrew with a handle may be used, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. The screwwith the handle will be described in detail below. Likewise, a similararrangement could be used for the vertical relative position of thehorizontal pelvis support element and the vertical pelvis supportelement. Other types of adjustments are also described later.

[0038] The next major element to be described in detail is thehorizontal pelvis support element (3). The horizontal pelvis supportelement (3) may be considered one of the key elements of the presentinvention in conjunction with the vertical pelvis support element. Thehorizontal pelvis support element (3) supports the pelvis at specificareas, namely a second bony structure which typically could be theanterior superior iliac spine. This type of support and engagement isnot taught by other devices or disclosures. The present inventionrealizes that such contact is needed to adequately support the pelvis.Yet, by placing such contact primarily in this area, the user may walkwith a full striding gait, as the user's capabilities may allow,unencumbered by unnecessarily restrictive restraints. Furthermore, bysupporting in this selective area, the user may bend, turn, tilt, andmake other more natural movements not found in other devices, especiallyif the hands and arms are not substantially used for support. Thehorizontal pelvis support element (3) may pivot or otherwise move inorder to contact the pelvis.

[0039] Contact with the pelvis in this area may be primarily through asub-element of the horizontal pelvis support element, referred to as thehorizontal contact element (37). In the preferred embodiment, as shownin FIGS. 1 and 2, the horizontal contact element (37) may be primarily acurved element. However, other embodiments could use a small pad thatprimarily contacts in the proximity of the anterior superior iliacspine. The goals and objects of the present invention might be met bythe horizontal contact element being designed to contact primarily inthe frontal plane a second bony structure and generally to avoid contactin other places such that movement would otherwise be restrictedunnecessarily. By the use of the term “horizontal”, it is specificallynot meant that the engagement must necessarily be through a horizontalplane. It is intended that such horizontal support be directed tosupporting the pelvis in a horizontal direction, as contrasted to thevertical pelvis support element which at least partly supports thepelvis in a vertical direction. Thus, the horizontal pelvis supportelement could, for instance, rotate vertically and engage the pelvisprimarily in the proximity of the anterior superior iliac spine throughsome localized pads. Likewise, the horizontal pelvis support elementcould move in an angular fashion toward the anterior superior iliacspine, for instance, and still support the movement of the pelvis in ahorizontal position. Other embodiments are possible. For the preferredembodiment, the horizontal pelvis support element may engage the pelvisprimarily at or in the proximity of the anterior superior iliac spine ina horizontal fashion through a curved line support as shown.

[0040] The horizontal pelvis support element (3) may be substantially aone piece element that could, for instance, pivot from one side.Alternatively, it may be divided into separate components. For instance,it may include a left and a right support element. Referring to FIGS. 1and 2, in such an embodiment, a left support element (38) mightprimarily engage and support in a forward position a bony structure suchas the left anterior superior iliac spine of the pelvis.Correspondingly, a right support element (39), might primarily engageand support in a forward position a bony structure such as a rightanterior superior iliac spine of the pelvis. The left and right supportelements might rotate about its corresponding axis denoted as upperframe axis (40) on the upper frame assembly (6). This would allow a userto rotate the left and right support elements independently to aposition where the pelvis could gain access to the vertical pelvissupport element (2) and then to close back and to engage and support thehorizontal movement of the pelvis. As shown in FIG. 8, a gap (41)between the left support element (38) and the right support element (39)may be preferred for further comfort to the user and yet support theuser sufficiently to perform the goals and objects of the presentinvention.

[0041] A horizontal pelvis securing element (42) may be a sub-element ofthe horizontal pelvis support element (3). It may also be incorporatedinto the individual components such as the left and the right supportelements, as shown in FIG. 2. The horizontal pelvis securing element(42) may include a cam (43) and a swing element (44) with a swingsecuring element (45). As a user positions a pelvis on the verticalpelvis support element (2) and rotates the horizontal pelvis supportelement (3) toward the bony structure such as at an anterior superioriliac spine, such rotation could be assisted by the swing element (44).The cam (43) and swing element (44) may assist in leveraging oradvantaging the force of the horizontal pelvis support element (3) toengage the anterior superior iliac spine. The horizontal pelvis securingelement (42) may additionally secure the horizontal pelvis supportelement into a variety of positions as is appropriate for individualusers. The swing element may be secured in position by the swingsecuring element (45) as shown in FIGS. 2 and 8.

[0042] One of the features of the present invention is that the verticalpelvis support element (2) and the horizontal pelvis support element (3)may interactively engage and support the pelvis at locations that allowa full striding gait. Obviously, the user's capabilities may determinehow far a user may stride. However, the capabilities of the presentinvention, by supporting in limited and specific locations, allow theuser to ambulate in a manner that other devices have not allowed and yetsecure the user sufficiently. This movement may include pelvic pivot,bend, rotation, stride and other gait movements. Such a positionincludes supporting the pelvis vertically at a different elevation thansupporting the pelvis horizontally. As mentioned earlier, the horizontalpelvis support element supports primarily a second bony structure in afrontal plane of the user's pelvis. This is shown in FIG. 6 using askeletal model. The frontal plane of the pelvis would include suchforwardly extending structures such as the anterior superior iliacspine.

[0043] A pelvis biasing element (46), as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, may beattached to the horizontal pelvis support element. The pelvis biasingelement (46) could be also attached to the upper frame assembly (6) asshown in FIG. 1. The pelvis biasing element (46) may include a firstrestraining element (46 a). In the preferred embodiment, the firstrestraining element (46 a) may include a belt to restrain the sacrum ina rearward plane of the pelvis. The belt may be adjustable by utilizingsuch elements as Velcro®. For additional convenience, the pelvis biasingelement (46) may include a second restraining element (47). One functionof the second restraining element (47) could be to support the firstrestraining element in an appropriate location such that the user mightnot be required to manipulate the first restraining element when theuser positioned the pelvis near the vertical pelvis support element.Obviously, as one skilled in the art would recognize, there are avariety of shapes, materials, and locations to restrain the firstrestraining element. FIG. 8 shows one of many alternative embodiments ofthe second restraining element (47). The second restraining element (47)could be, for instance, a flexible rod or spring wire attached to theupper frame (6).

[0044] In the preferred embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, thehorizontal pelvis support element (3) may be independently adjustable inheight to account for different elevations of different users. Such anadjustment might be similar to the height adjustment elements of theupper frame assembly (6) described above, using apparatus and methodsdescribed similar to the first and second upper frame assembly heightadjustment elements. Obviously, different combinations could accomplishthe goal of allowing adjustments.

[0045] The horizontal pelvis support element (3) may be adjustedrelative to the vertical pelvis support element (2). Such adjustment maybe made by providing notches, holes, and pins. For the preferredembodiment, however, it may be convenient to provide a handle with ascrew that slidably adjusts the horizontal pelvis support element (3).This may be seen in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 as a relative adjustment element(36) which may coordinate the horizontal relative position. (Obviously,a similar arrangement, and certainly other arrangements, could beavailable for a vertical relative position adjustment.) The relativeadjustment element (36) may include a screw (36 a) which engages theupper frame assembly (6) on one end and a handle (36 b) on another endsuch that the relative location of the horizontal pelvis support elementmay be variably adjusted. This relative adjustment element may assistthe user in adjusting the tilt of the pelvis and in obtaining a morecorrect posture. Furthermore, the horizontal pelvis support element (3)may be adjusted with respect to the vertical pelvis support element (2)in a more vertical direction by the use of a height adjustment element,similar to that used by the vertical pelvis support element described inthe preceding paragraphs. For instance, this could include a telescopingtube arrangement, secured by aligning holes and spring biased pins, asone embodiment.

[0046] In the preferred embodiment, a plurality of rotatable elements(48) as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 could be connected to the frame assembly.This could include being connected to the lower frame assembly (4) nearthe first lower frame element (22). These rotatable elements couldinclude, for instance, wheels, casters, rollers, and other rotatingdevices. These rotatable elements generally could rotate about ahorizontal axis (49) as shown in FIG. 2. Separately, they could turn orswivel about a second axis (50) which may be substantially perpendicularto a horizontal plane with respect to the lower frame assembly (4).Additional movement to the rotatable elements might include beingdesigned to be folded to a substantially aligned planer position withrespect to the horizontal plane to the lower frame assembly (4) when aframe wheel repositionable support (52) is rotated. This is shown inFIG. 9 where the wheels are aligned in a substantially planer positionwith respect to a horizontal plane near a lower frame assembly. WhileFIG. 9 shows the wheels aligned in a substantially planer position, thegeneral intent of the folding of the rotatable elements (48) is toreduce the volume necessary to store or transport the device. Thus, asshown in FIG. 10, the rotatable elements may be folded to within anenvelope of the frame. By the term “envelope”, it is meant to includethe volume created by approximately the outside dimensions of the frameassembly and, as shown in FIG. 10, could include the volume created bythe horizontal frame envelope dimension (51 a), the vertical frameenvelope dimension (51 b), and the depth of the frame assembly.

[0047] Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 2, the rotatable elements may befolded to different orientations, typically within the envelope of theframe assembly. These may be folded using a frame wheel repositionablesupport (52). The frame wheel repositionable support may include aposition retarding assembly (52 a) which may assist in the folding byholding in a folded position. It may also include a retainer (52 c) toretain the repositioning orientation, known to those in the art. Forinstance, to fold the rotatable elements (48) to a folded state, theuser might depress the pin, which may be biased (such as with a spring)and act as a retainer (52 c) by engaging a hole in the lower frameelement (22), to release the frame wheel repositionable support (52) androtate or otherwise reposition the frame wheel repositionable support toa folded position. Upon reuse, the frame wheel repositionable supportmay be rotated back to where the pin engages into position. (Thisfeature is also described and shown in FIG. 11, below.) Naturally, otherembodiments are possible that could allow the rotatable elements to befolded to a position within the envelope of the frame assembly.

[0048] If the rotatable elements are included with the embodiment, thena braking assembly (53) may be appropriate. The braking assembly (53)may include a remote braking actuator (53 a), a master cylinder (53 b),conduit lines (53 c), a piston assembly (53 d), a cylinder (53 g) insidethe rotatable element swivel axle (53 e), and a brake shoe (53 f). Thebraking assembly may be fluidicly actuated in that it may use a fluid(either a gas or a liquid, as would be known to those in the art) toremotely actuate the brake to engage the rotatable element. This type ofbraking assembly is in contrast to other devices in this field whichtypically may use a lever mounted to the rotatable element itself thatrequires manual actuation of each brake on each rotatable element sothat the lever itself drags the rolling surface of a wheel. It is alsoin contrast to some devices which may use a variety of pulleys andcables to actuate the brakes. The present braking assembly may brake therotatable elements fluidicly, may brake the rotatable elements in anydirection in which the rotatable elements have turned about the secondaxis (50), and may brake a plurality of rotatable elementssimultaneously. Furthermore, the braking assembly of the presentinvention may be advantaged in a mechanical or fluidic manner to providean increased force in actuating the braking assembly. For instance, thiscould be useful for handicapped individuals needing assistance toactuate the braking assembly with a larger degree of force than theircapabilities.

[0049] Another advantage of the braking assembly as part of the presentinvention is that a single station could brake a plurality of rotatablyelements or the braking could include a multiple of stations acting ondifferent rotatable elements. Likewise, because the braking assembly isfluidicly actuated, it may be placed at a variety of convenientlocations for the user or an assistant. In the present invention, theremote braking actuator (53 a) may be located on the lower frameassembly (4). Such a location could allow the user or an assistant tostep on the actuator (53 a) and fluidicly brake, in the embodimentshown, each of the rotatable elements simultaneously andomni-directionally (that is in any direction to which the rotatableelements are turned or swiveled). Naturally, it may be desirable to onlybrake a plurality of rotatable elements less than the total number ofthe rotatable elements or even a single rotatable element. Similarly,the remote braking actuator could be located in a position where theuser's arms or hands could actuate the braking assembly. The mastercylinder (53 b) may be actuated by the remote braking actuator such thatfluid pressure in the conduit lines (53 c) actuates the piston (53 d) ateach rotatable element which may be enclosed in a cylinder (53 g), whichmay in turn be located inside the rotatable element swivel axle (53 e),although it may be located other places as well. Such actuation mayforce the brake shoe (53 f) against the rotatable element, causingfriction, thus producing a braking function.

[0050] Other embodiments of braking assemblies are certainly possibleand may be included in the scope of the fluidicly actuating brakingassembly described above. Such alternate embodiments could include diskbrakes, either single or double acting cylinders, and other frictioncausing devices to cause restricted movement of the rotatable elements.Another aspect of the braking assembly as described above is that it mayfunction in any position of the rotatable elements, even in a foldedposition, such as when the rotatable elements are folded within theenvelope of the frame assembly.

[0051] In addition to the braking assembly, the present invention mayinclude a rotatable swivel lock system. The rotatable swivel lock system(54) may include swivel actuator (54 a), master cylinder (54 b), conduitlines (54 c), swivel cylinder (54 d), swivel piston (54 e), wrench (54f), pivot point (54 g), and rotatable element swivel axle (53 e), asshown in FIGS. 1 and 2. The swivel actuator (54 a) may be similar to theremote braking actuator (53 a). In the present invention, it may bepositioned on the lower frame assembly (4) and may be actuated by a footof a user or assistant and may be remote. The swivel actuator (54 a) mayactuate the master cylinder (54 b) which in turn may pressurize theconduit line (54 c) with fluid (either gas or liquid). The fluid mayactuate the swivel cylinder (54 d) which may include forcing the swivelpiston (54 e) to a position that may then move the wrench (54 f). Thewrench (54 f) as shown in the present invention may pivot about pivotpoint (54 g). Near the opposite end of the pivot point (54 g), thewrench may move up and down on the rotatable element swivel axle (53 e)from the perspective of FIG. 2. The rotatable element swivel axle (53 e)in the present embodiment may have at least one swivel cam (54 h), suchas a non-circular flat, which the wrench may engage at differentelevations. In the present embodiment, if the wrench, for instance, isin a non-engaging position (54 i), the rotatable elements may turn aboutthe axis (50) on the rotatable element swivel axle (53 e). However, ifthe swivel actuator (54 a) is actuated, the swivel piston (54 e) maymove the wrench (54 f) in contact with the swivel cam (54 h) on therotatable element swivel axle (53 e) as to reduce or prevent rotation.As shown in FIG. 2, in viewing multiple cams about the rotatable elementswivel axle (53 e), the wrench may prevent rotation at multiple anglesabout the second axis (50) as the frame wheel axle assembly (55) turnsabout the second axis (50). Also, similar to the braking system, theswivel lock system may include a station or a plurality of stations. Aswivel lock system may be useful to the user when navigating sidesloping surfaces or early stages of gait training.

[0052] The device may even be provided with a system that will allow therotatable elements to be locked in place whenever it is folded to aposition within the envelope of the frame assembly. Likewise, thepresent invention may use the cam (54 i) and include a logic system thatswivel locks each rotatable elements or any number of the rotatableelements automatically when the rotatable elements are folded, such aswhen folded within the frame envelope, regardless of whether the swivelactuator is actuated. As those with knowledge in the art wouldunderstand, an accumulator may be desired in each of the fluidic systemsin order to better accomplish this and may be useful for adding fluidcapacity to the fluidic systems.

[0053]FIG. 11 shows some assembled items within the frame wheelrepositionable support (52) described above, such as portions of thebraking assembly (53), swivel lock system (54), retainer (52 c), and arotatable element (48). (To view the inside volume of the frame wheelrepositionable support (52) for purposes of illustration, it is turnedapproximately 90 degrees from the actual orientation that it wouldengage the lower frame assembly (4).) Conduit lines (53 c and 54 c) areshown as part of the braking assembly and swivel lock system. Theconduit line (53 c) could actuate the brake shoe (53 f) toward therotatable element (48) to brake against rotation. An isometric view ofthe wrench (54 f) is also shown, whereupon the wrench extends toward theswivel cam (54 h), shown in FIG. 2. As described above, the rotatableelement swivel axle (53 e) in the present embodiment may have at leastone swivel cam (54 h), with two being shown, which the wrench may engageat different elevations. In the present embodiment, if the wrench, forinstance, is in a non-engaging position (54 i), the rotatable elementsmay turn about the axis (50) on the rotatable element swivel axle (53e). However, if the swivel actuator (54 a) is actuated, the swivelpiston inside the swivel cylinder (54 d) may move the wrench (54 f),such as by causing it to pivot about pivot point (54 g), in such contactwith the swivel cam (54 h) on the rotatable element swivel axle (53 e)as to reduce or prevent rotation. Also shown is a portion of theretainer (52 c) extending below the frame wheel repositionable support(52). The retainer (52 c) could engage the hole (54 j) (or otheraperture) on the lower frame assembly (4) to restrain the frame wheelrepositionable support (52) from rotating about the frame assembly (4)until disengaged, as described above.

[0054] When using the preferred embodiment of the present invention, astep may include providing the frame assembly to a user. The user orassistant might then position the user's pelvis near a vertical pelvissupport element. By moving at least one horizontal pelvis supportelement connected to a frame assembly, the user may have access to thevertical pelvis support element. The user's pelvis might be positionedso that it is supported by the vertical pelvis support element.Horizontally, the pelvis may be supported primarily in a frontal planeat the anterior superior iliac spine of the pelvis with a horizontalpelvis support element. This may involve locating the horizontal pelvissupport element against the pelvis. Another aspect of the presentinvention may include forcibly elevating the upper frame assembly to acomfortable height for the user or to another appropriate height thatthe user or the user's assistant may direct. To more fully utilize thepresent invention, the support may be such that it allows a fullstriding gait while accomplishing the support. Furthermore, insupporting the pelvis, the invention may advantage the horizontal pelvissupport element or the vertical pelvis support element with amechanically or fluidicly advantaged system. It may also be useful toprovide rotatable elements that may be individually or collectivelybraked, restricted from swiveling upon actuation, or other restrictedmovements of the rotatable elements.

[0055] Another advantage of the present invention may be seen inproviding a reduced, folded state of the device for increasedcapabilities for transportation and storage. Generally, the variousadjustable elements, such as the horizontal pelvis support element,could be lowered to a minimal position in the upper frame assembly (6).The upper frame assembly (6) might be lowered by using the elevationelement (5) to a lower elevation corresponding to an elevation of thelower frame assembly (4). This could include reducing the overall fullyextended height by at least 30 percent. It could even include loweringthe upper frame assembly so that it was substantially at a similarelevation with the lower frame assembly. This elevation could include,for instance, an elevation such that the majority of the upper frameassembly was within a few inches of the highest point of the lower frameassembly. For the preferred embodiment, the upper frame assembly couldbe designed to lower within the lower frame assembly envelope (such asbetween the side-to-side dimensions of the lower frame assembly) tobetter effectuate the folding, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10. Furthermore,if the embodiment is provided with rotatable elements, the rotatableelements could be folded within the envelope created by the volume ofthe frame assembly (1). The device could then be more easily carried,transported, or stored.

[0056] Each of these support assistive embodiments could include variousfacets of the present invention. Some may include rotatable elements,while others may not include such elements. Some may include varietiesof elevation adjustments specific to the elevation assembly or to thepelvis support elements. The market place and manufacturing concerns maydictate the appropriate embodiments for the present invention.

[0057] The foregoing discussion and the claims that follow describe onlythe preferred embodiments of the present invention. Particularly withrespect to the claims, it should be understood that a number of changesmay be made without departing from the essence of the present invention.In this regard, it is intended that such changes—to the extent that theysubstantially achieve the same results in substantially the sameway—will still fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0058] It is simply not practical to describe in the claims all thepossible embodiments to the present invention which may be accomplishedgenerally in keeping with the goals and objects of the present inventionand this disclosure and which may include separately or collectivelysuch aspects as supporting the pelvis in specific areas such as theanterior superior iliac spine and ischial tuberosities, the fluidiclyactuated braking assembly system, the multiple actuation tabs directlyand independently actuating a forcing element, and other aspects of thepresent invention. While these may be added to explicitly include suchdetails, the existing claims should be construed to encompass suchaspects. To the extent the methods claimed in the present invention arenot further discussed, they are natural outgrowths of the system orapparatus claims. Therefore, separate and further discussion of themethods are deemed unnecessary as they otherwise claim steps that areimplicit in the use and manufacture of the system or the apparatusclaims. Furthermore, the steps are organized in a more logical fashion,however, other sequences can and do occur. Therefore, the method claimsshould not be construed to include only the order of the sequence andsteps presented.

1. A support assistive device for a user having a pelvis with ananterior superior iliac spine comprising: a. a frame assembly; b. avertical pelvis support element connected to said frame assembly; and c.a horizontal pelvis support element designed to support primarily saidanterior superior iliac spine of said pelvis and connected to said frameassembly.
 2. A support assistive device as described in claim 1 whereinsaid frame assembly comprises a lower frame assembly, an elevationassembly connected to said lower frame assembly, an upper frame assemblyconnected to elevation assembly, and wherein said vertical pelvissupport element is connected to said upper frame assembly.
 3. A supportassistive device as described in claim 2 wherein said lower frameassembly comprises a first lower frame element and a second lower frameelement and wherein said second lower frame element is connected in anupwardly inclining manner to said first lower frame element.
 4. Asupport assistive device as described in claim 2 or 3 wherein said lowerframe assembly is open toward a first end for access and closed toward asecond end and wherein said second end is elevated for increased gaitstride.
 5. A support assistive device as described in claim 2 whereinsaid elevation assembly comprises a forcing element to assist inelevation adjustment.
 6. A support assistive device as described inclaim 5 wherein said elevation assembly is designed to be independentlyactivated from a plurality of independent locations.
 7. A supportassistive device as described in claim 6 wherein said elevation assemblyis designed to be directly activated from a plurality of saidindependent locations.
 8. A support assistive device as described inclaim 2 wherein said upper frame assembly comprises a first upper frameassembly height adjustment element and a second upper frame assemblyheight adjustment element wherein a relative height of said first andsecond upper frame assembly height adjustment elements is adjustable. 9.A support assistive device as described in claim 1 wherein said verticalpelvis support element supports primarily at least one ischialtuberosity.
 10. A support assistive device as described in claim 1wherein said horizontal pelvis support element is horizontallyadjustable relative to said vertical pelvis support element.
 11. Asupport assistive device as described in claim 1 wherein said horizontalpelvis support element is vertically adjustable relative to saidvertical pelvis support element.
 12. A support assistive device asdescribed in claim 1 wherein said horizontal pelvis support elementcomprises a left and right support element wherein said left and rightsupport elements act independently of one another and further comprisinga gap between said left and right support elements.
 13. A supportassistive device as described in claim 1 wherein said vertical pelvissupport element and horizontal pelvis support element interactivelysupport said pelvis at locations that allow a full striding gait.
 14. Asupport assistive device as described in claim 1 wherein said verticalpelvis support element and horizontal pelvis support elementinteractively support said pelvis at locations that allow a fallstriding gait independent of the substantial use of arms for support.15. A support assistive device of claim 1 wherein said vertical pelvissupport element and said horizontal pelvis support element furthercomprises adjustment elements that are adjustable independent of eachother.
 16. A support assistive device as described in claim 1 whereinsaid horizontal pelvis support element comprises at least one horizontalpelvis securing element capable of securing said horizontal pelvissupport element.
 17. A support assistive device as described in claim 2wherein said upper frame assembly comprises an adjustable firstrestraining element designed to restrain said anterior superior iliacspine against said horizontal pelvis support element.
 18. A supportassistive device as described in claim 17 wherein said first restrainingelement is supported by a second restraining element.
 19. A supportassistive device as described in claim 1 further comprising a pluralityof rotatable elements connected to said frame assembly.
 20. A supportassistive device as described in claim 1 wherein said frame assemblycomprises a lower frame assembly connected to a plurality of rotatableelements, an elevation assembly connected to said lower frame assembly,and an upper frame assembly connected to said elevation element.
 21. Asupport assistive device as described in claim 19 or 20 furthercomprising a braking assembly.
 22. A support assistive device asdescribed in claim 21 wherein said braking assembly is fluidiclyactuated.
 23. A support assistive device as described in claim 22wherein said braking assembly comprises a remote braking actuatorattached to said braking assembly to remotely actuate said brakingassembly.
 24. A support assistive device of claim 23 wherein said remotebraking actuator is securable for at least one rotatable element.
 25. Asupport assistive device as described in claim 22 wherein said brakingassembly is advantaged.
 26. A support assistive device as described inclaim 23 wherein said remote braking actuator further comprises a singlestation and wherein said single station brakes a plurality of rotatableelements.
 27. A support assistive device as described in claim 21wherein said braking assembly omni-directionally brakes said rotatableelements.
 28. A support assistive device as described in claim 23wherein said braking assembly omni-directionally brakes said rotatableelements.
 29. A support assistive device as described in claim 26wherein said braking assembly omni-directionally brakes said rotatableelements.
 30. A support assistive device as described in claim 27wherein said braking assembly brakes simultaneously a plurality ofrotatable elements.
 31. A support assistive device as described in claim2 wherein said elevation assembly is designed to allow lowering of saidupper frame assembly to a corresponding elevation with said lower frameassembly.
 32. A support assistive device as described in claim 2 whereinsaid rotatable elements rotate about a horizontal first axis andseparately turn about a second axis substantially perpendicular to ahorizontal plane with respect to said lower frame assembly.
 33. Asupport assistive device as described in claim 19 wherein said rotatableelements rotate about a horizontal first axis and separately turn abouta second axis substantially perpendicular to a horizontal plane withrespect to said lower frame assembly and wherein said rotatable elementsare designed to be folded substantially within an envelope of said frameassembly.
 34. A support assistive device as described in claim 19wherein said rotatable elements rotate about a horizontal first axis andseparately turn about a second axis substantially perpendicular to ahorizontal plane with respect to said lower frame assembly and whereinsaid rotatable elements are designed to be folded to a substantiallyaligned planar position with respect to said horizontal plane on saidlower frame assembly.
 35. A support assistive device as described inclaim 32 wherein said rotatable elements are designed to be swivellocked into a position about said second axis.
 36. A support assistivedevice as described in claim 35 further comprising a single station toswivel lock a plurality of said rotatable elements.
 37. A supportassistive device as described in claim 32 wherein said rotatableelements are designed to be automatically swivel locked into a positionwhen said rotatable elements are folded.
 38. A method of supporting auser having a pelvis in a support assistive device comprising: a.providing a frame assembly; b. positioning said pelvis near a verticalpelvis support element; c. vertically supporting said pelvis with saidvertical pelvis support element; and d. horizontally supporting saidpelvis in a frontal plane primarily in the proximity of an anteriorsuperior iliac spine of said pelvis with a horizontal pelvis supportelement.
 39. A method of supporting said user in said support assistivedevice as described in claim 38 comprising the step of pivotallyrevolving said horizontal pelvis support element to move said horizontalpelvis support element.
 40. A method of supporting said user in saidsupport assistive device as described in claim 38 wherein said step ofproviding a frame assembly comprises the steps of: a. providing a lowerframe assembly; and b. connecting an upper frame assembly to said lowerframe assembly.
 41. A method of supporting said user in said supportassistive device as described in claim 40 wherein said step ofconnecting said upper frame assembly to said lower frame assemblycomprises the step of hingeably connecting said upper frame assembly tosaid lower frame assembly and the step of forcibly changing elevationsof said upper frame assembly and said vertical pelvis support element.42. A method of supporting said user in said support assistive device asdescribed in claim 41 further comprising the step of allowing said stepof forcibly changing elevations from a plurality of direct andindependent locations.
 43. A method of supporting said user in saidsupport assistive device as described in claim 38 wherein said step ofhorizontally supporting said pelvis in a frontal plane comprises thestep of supporting said pelvis while allowing a full striding gait. 44.A method of supporting said user in said support assistive device asdescribed in claim 43 further comprising the step of supporting saidpelvis substantially independently of at least one arm of said user. 45.A method of supporting said user in said support assistive device asdescribed in claim 38 comprising the step of allowing said horizontalpelvis support element to be secured with an advantage.
 46. A method ofsupporting said user in said support assistive device as described inclaim 38 or 43 wherein said step of horizontally supporting said pelviscomprises the step of securing said horizontal pelvis support element ina variable position.
 47. A method of supporting said user in saidsupport assistive device as described in claim 40 comprising the step ofproviding a plurality of said rotatable elements connected to said lowerframe assembly and flexibly allowing said rotatable elements to turnabout a first axis substantially parallel to a horizontal plane withrespect to said lower frame assembly while allowing said rotatableelements to separately turn about a second axis substantiallyperpendicular to a horizontal plane with respect to said lower frameassembly.
 48. A method of supporting said user in said support assistivedevice as described in claim 47 further comprising the step of brakingsaid support assistive device with a braking assembly.
 49. A method ofsupporting said user in said support assistive device as described inclaim 48 wherein said step of braking further comprises the step offluidicly actuating said braking assembly.
 50. A method of supportingsaid user in said support assistive device as described in claim 48wherein said step of braking comprises the step of advantaging saidbraking assembly.
 51. A method of supporting said user in said supportassistive device as described in claim 48 wherein said step of brakingcomprises the step of braking a plurality of rotatable elements from asingle station.
 52. A method of supporting said user in said supportassistive device as described in claim 48 or 51 wherein said step ofbraking comprises the step of braking omni-directionally.
 53. A methodof supporting said user in said support assistive device as described inclaim 52 wherein said step of braking omni-directionally comprises thestep of braking simultaneously said plurality of rotatable elements. 54.A method of supporting said user in said support assistive device asdescribed in claim 47 further comprising the step of folding saidrotatable elements substantially within an envelope of said frameassembly.
 55. A method of supporting said user in said support assistivedevice as described in claim 47 further comprising the step of allowingsaid rotatable elements to be swivel locked into a plurality ofpositions about said second axis.
 56. A method of supporting said userin said support assistive device as described in claim 55 wherein saidstep of allowing said rotatable elements to be swivel locked furthercomprises the step of allowing from a single station.
 57. A method ofsupporting said user in said support assistive device as described inclaim 54 further comprising the step of allowing said rotatable elementsto be automatically swivel locked into a position when said step offolding said rotatable elements substantially within an envelope of saidframe assembly occurs.
 58. A support assistive device for a user havinga pelvis with an anterior superior iliac spine comprising: a. a frameassembly; b a vertical pelvis support element connected to said frameassembly wherein said vertical pelvis support element supports primarilya lower bony structure of said pelvis; and c. a horizontal pelvissupport element connected to said frame assembly wherein said horizontalpelvis support element is positioned toward a front of said supportassistive device and supports primarily a second bony structure in afrontal plane of said pelvis in a forward position and at a separatelocation from said vertical pelvis support element.
 59. A supportassistive device for a user having a pelvis with an anterior superioriliac spine comprising: a. a frame assembly; b. a vertical pelvissupport element connected to said frame assembly wherein said verticalpelvis support element supports primarily at least one ischialtuberosity of said pelvis; and c. a horizontal pelvis support elementconnected to said frame assembly wherein said pelvis support elementsupports primarily at least one anterior superior iliac spine of saidpelvis.
 60. A support assistive device for a user having a pelvis withan anterior superior iliac spine as described in claim 58 or 59 whereinsaid horizontal pelvis support element comprises a left support elementto support primarily a left anterior superior iliac spine of said pelvisand a right support element to support primarily a right anteriorsuperior iliac spine of said pelvis.
 61. A support assistive device fora user having a pelvis with an anterior superior iliac spine asdescribed in claim 60 wherein said left and right support elements areconnected.
 62. A support assistive device for a user having a pelviswith an anterior superior iliac spine as described in claim 60 whereinsaid left and right support elements pivot about an axis on said frameassembly.
 63. A support assistive device for a user having a pelvis withan anterior superior iliac spine as described in claim 58 or 59 whereinsaid vertical pelvis support element is located at a different elevationthan said horizontal pelvis support element.
 64. A support assistivedevice for a user having a pelvis with an anterior superior iliac spineas described in claim 63 said vertical pelvis support element isadjustable relative to said horizontal pelvis support element.
 65. Asupport assistive device as described in claim 64 wherein saidhorizontal pelvis support element is horizontally adjustable relative tosaid vertical pelvis support element.
 66. A support assistive device asdescribed in claim 65 wherein said horizontal pelvis support element isvertically adjustable relative to said vertical pelvis support element.67. A support assistive device for a user having a pelvis with ananterior superior iliac spine as described in claim 60 wherein saidvertical pelvis support element is located at a different elevation thansaid pelvis support element.
 68. A support assistive device for a userhaving a pelvis with an anterior superior iliac spine as described inclaim 58 or 59 wherein said horizontal pelvis support element isprimarily a curved element.
 69. A support assistive device for a userhaving a pelvis with an anterior superior iliac spine as described inclaim 58 or 68 comprising a pelvis biasing element attached to saidhorizontal pelvis support element.
 70. A support assistive device for auser having a pelvis with an anterior superior iliac spine as describedin claim 60 wherein said left and right support elements are separatedby a gap.
 71. A support assistive device for a user having a pelvis withan anterior superior iliac spine as described in claim 58 whereinvertical pelvis support element and said horizontal pelvis supportelement supports said bony structures of said pelvis at a full stridinggait location.
 72. A support assistive device for a user having a pelviswith an anterior superior iliac spine as described in claim 58 and 59wherein said vertical pelvis support element and horizontal pelvissupport element interactively support said pelvis to allow a fullstriding gait independent of the substantial use of arms for support.73. A support assistive device for a user having a pelvis with ananterior superior iliac spine as described in claim 58 or 59 whereinsaid horizontal pelvis support element comprises a horizontal pelvissecuring element connected to said pelvis support element to secure saidhorizontal pelvis support element.
 74. A support assistive device for auser having a pelvis with an anterior superior iliac spine as describedin claim 60 wherein said pelvis support element further comprises ahorizontal pelvis securing element connected to said pelvis supportelement to secure said horizontal pelvis support element.
 75. A supportassistive device for a user having a pelvis with an anterior superioriliac spine as described in claim 74 wherein said horizontal pelvissecuring element further comprises a left securing element for said leftsupport element and a right securing element for said right supportelement wherein said left and right securing elements act independentlyof each other.
 76. A support assistive device for a user having a pelviswith an anterior superior iliac spine as described in claim 58 or 59comprising a plurality of rotatable elements connected to said frameassembly.
 77. A support assistive device for a user having a pelvis withan anterior superior iliac spine as described in claim 76 furthercomprising a braking assembly.
 78. A support assistive device for a userhaving a pelvis with an anterior superior iliac spine as described inclaim 77 wherein said braking assembly is fluidicly actuated.
 79. Asupport assistive device for a user having a pelvis with an anteriorsuperior iliac spine as described in claim 78 wherein said brakingassembly further comprises a remote braking actuator attached to saidbraking assembly for remotely actuating said braking assembly to brake aplurality of rotatable elements.
 80. A support assistive device for auser having a pelvis with an anterior superior iliac spine as describedin claim 78 wherein said braking assembly is advantaged.
 81. A supportassistive device for a user having a pelvis with an anterior superioriliac spine as described in claim 79 wherein said braking assembly isadvantaged.
 82. A support assistive device for a user having a pelviswith an anterior superior iliac spine as described in claim 79 whereinsaid remote braking actuator element further comprises a single stationand wherein said single station brakes a plurality of rotatableelements.
 83. A support assistive device for a user having a pelvis withan anterior superior iliac spine as described in claim 80 wherein saidactuating element further comprises a single station and wherein saidsingle station brakes a plurality of rotatable elements.
 84. A supportassistive device for a user having a pelvis with an anterior superioriliac spine as described in claim 77 wherein said braking assemblyomni-directionally brakes said rotatable elements.
 85. A supportassistive device for a user having a pelvis with an anterior superioriliac spine as described in claim 84 wherein said braking assemblybrakes simultaneously a plurality of rotatable elements.
 86. A supportassistive device for a user having a pelvis with an anterior superioriliac spine as described in claim 58 wherein said frame assemblycomprises a lower frame assembly and a upper frame assembly and anelevation assembly connected between said lower and upper frameassemblies and wherein said elevation assembly allows changing anelevation of said upper frame assembly to a corresponding elevation withsaid lower frame assembly.
 87. A support assistive device for a userhaving a pelvis with an anterior superior iliac spine as described inclaim 86 wherein said elevation assembly further comprises a forcingelement to assist said user in said changing of said elevation.
 88. Asupport assistive device as described in claim 86 or 87 wherein saidelevation assembly is designed to be directly and independentlyactivated from a plurality of independent locations.
 89. A supportassistive device as described in claim 88 wherein said elevationassembly is designed to be directly activated from a plurality of saidindependent locations.
 90. A support assistive device for a user havinga pelvis with an anterior superior iliac spine as described in claim 76wherein said rotatable elements are designed to be folded substantiallywithin an envelope of said frame assembly.
 91. A support assistivedevice for a user having a pelvis with an anterior superior iliac spineas described in claim 86 wherein said rotatable elements are designed tobe folded substantially within an envelope of said frame assembly.
 92. Amethod of supporting a user having a pelvis in a support assistivedevice comprising: a. positioning said pelvis near a pelvis support; b.biasing said pelvis toward said pelvis support; c. vertically supportingsaid pelvis primarily at a first bony structure of said pelvis; and d.horizontally supporting said pelvis at a second bony structure in afrontal position at a separate elevation from said step of verticallysupporting said pelvis.
 93. A method of supporting a user having apelvis in a support assistive device comprising: a. positioning saidpelvis near a pelvis support; b. biasing said pelvis toward said pelvissupport; c. vertically supporting said pelvis primarily on at least oneischial tuberosity of said pelvis; and d. horizontally supporting saidpelvis primarily on at least one anterior superior iliac spine.
 94. Amethod of supporting said user in said support assistive device asdescribed in claim 93 wherein said step of vertically supporting saidpelvis occurs at a different elevation than said step of horizontallysupporting said pelvis.
 95. A method of supporting said user in saidsupport assistive device as described in claim 92 wherein said step ofhorizontally supporting comprises the step of primarily supporting witha curved line support.
 96. A method of supporting said user in saidsupport assistive device as described in claim 92 wherein said secondbony structure comprises a left and right anterior superior iliac spineand wherein said step of horizontally supporting said pelvis comprisesthe step of supporting primarily said left and right anterior superioriliac spine.
 97. A method of supporting said user in said supportassistive device as described in claim 92 or 96 wherein said step ofhorizontally supporting said pelvis comprises the step of independentlysupporting a pelvis with a left support element and a right supportelement.
 98. A method of supporting said user in said support assistivedevice as described in claim 97 wherein said step of horizontallysupporting said pelvis further comprises the step of leaving a gapbetween left and right support elements.
 99. A method of supporting saiduser in said support assistive device as described in claim 92comprising the step of allowing a full striding gait.
 100. A method ofsupporting said user in said support assistive device as described inclaim 93 comprising the step of allowing a full striding gait.
 101. Amethod of supporting said user in said support assistive device asdescribed in claim 92 or 93 further comprising the step of supportingsaid pelvis substantially independently of at least one arm of saiduser.
 102. A method of supporting said user in said support assistivedevice as described in claim 92 or 99 wherein said step of verticallysupporting the pelvis and said step of horizontally supporting saidpelvis comprises the step of allowing elevation adjustments.
 103. Amethod of supporting said user in said support assistive device asdescribed in claim 92 or 95 wherein step of biasing said pelviscomprises the step of biasing said pelvis toward said second bonystructure with a first restraining element.
 104. A method of supportingsaid user in said support assistive device as described in claim 92 or93 comprising the step of providing a plurality of said rotatableelements connected to a frame assembly on said support assistive deviceand flexibly allowing said rotatable elements to turn about a first axissubstantially parallel to a horizontal plane with respect to said frameassembly while allowing said rotatable elements to separately turn abouta second axis substantially perpendicular to a horizontal plane withrespect to said frame assembly.
 105. A method of supporting said user insaid support assistive device as described in claim 104 furthercomprising the step of allowing said rotatable elements to be swivellocked into a plurality of positions about said second axis.
 106. Amethod of supporting a user having a pelvis in a support assistivedevice as described in claim 105 wherein said step of allowing saidrotatable elements to be swivel locked further comprises the step ofallowing from a single station.
 107. A method of supporting said user insaid support assistive device as described in claim 104 furthercomprising the step of braking said support assistive device with abraking assembly.
 108. A method of supporting said user in said supportassistive device as described in claim 107 wherein said step of brakingfurther comprises the step of fluidicly actuating said braking assembly.109. A method of supporting said user in said support assistive deviceas described in claim 107 wherein said step of braking comprises thestep of advantaging said braking assembly.
 110. A method of supportingsaid user in said support assistive device as described in claim 107wherein said step of braking comprises the step of braking a pluralityof rotatable elements from a single station.
 111. A method of supportingsaid user in said support assistive device as described in claim 107 or110 wherein said step of braking comprises the step of brakingomni-directionally.
 112. A method of supporting said user in saidsupport assistive device as described in claim 111 wherein said step ofbraking omni-directionally comprises the step of braking simultaneouslysaid plurality of rotatable elements.
 113. A method of supporting a userhaving a pelvis in a support assistive device comprising the steps of:a. providing a support assistive device with a plurality of rotatableelements; and b. fluidicly actuating a braking assembly connected tosaid rotatable elements.
 114. A method of supporting said user in saidsupport assistive device as described in claim 113 comprising the stepof advantaging said braking assembly.
 115. A method of supporting a userhaving a pelvis in a support assistive device comprising: a. providing asupport assistive device with a plurality of rotatable elements; b.fluidicly actuating a braking assembly; and c. braking a plurality ofsaid rotatable elements.
 116. A method of supporting said user in saidsupport assistive device as described in claim 115 wherein said step ofbraking comprises the step of braking a plurality of said rotatableelements from a single braking station.
 117. A method of supporting auser having a pelvis in a support assistive device comprising: a.providing a support assistive device with a plurality of rotatableelements; b. actuating a braking assembly; and c. omni-directionallyremote braking a plurality of said rotatable elements.
 118. A method ofsupporting said user in said support assistive device as described inclaim 117 wherein said step of omni-directionally remote brakingcomprises the step of braking simultaneously omni-directionally aplurality of said rotatable elements.
 119. A method of supporting saiduser in said support assistive device as described in claim 117 whereinstep of actuating said braking assembly occurs from a single station.120. A method of supporting said user in said support assistive deviceas described in claim 118 wherein step of actuating said brakingassembly occurs from a plurality of stations.
 121. A method ofsupporting said user in said support assistive device as described inclaim 118 wherein step of actuating said braking assembly occurs from asingle station.
 122. A support assistive device for a user having apelvis with an anterior superior iliac spine comprising: a. a frameassembly; b. a plurality of rotatable elements connected to said frameassembly; c. a fluidic braking assembly affecting at least one of saidrotatable elements; and d. a remote braking actuator coupled to saidfluidic braking assembly.
 123. A support assistive device for a userhaving a pelvis with an anterior superior iliac spine as described inclaim 122 wherein said braking assembly is advantaged to provideincreased force in actuating said braking assembly.
 124. A supportassistive device for a user having a pelvis with an anterior superioriliac spine comprising: a. a frame assembly; b. a plurality of rotatableelements connected to said frame assembly; c. a fluidic braking assemblyaffecting a plurality of said rotatable elements; and d. a brakingstation coupled to said fluidic braking assembly to actuate braking of aplurality of said rotatable elements from said station.
 125. A supportassistive device for a user having a pelvis with an anterior superioriliac spine comprising: a. a frame assembly; b. a plurality of rotatableelements connected to said frame assembly wherein said rotatableelements positionally turn about a substantially perpendicular axis to aplurality of turned positions wherein said perpendicular axis isperpendicular to a plane formed by said rotatable elements; and c. anomni-directional braking assembly designed to allow remote braking of atleast one of said rotatable elements in a plurality of said turnedpositions.
 126. A support assistive device for a user having a pelviswith an anterior superior iliac spine as described in claim 125 whereinsaid omni-directional braking assembly brakes simultaneously a pluralityof said rotatable elements.
 127. A support assistive device for a userhaving a pelvis with an anterior superior iliac spine as described inclaim 125 or 126 further comprising a single braking station whereinsaid braking station brakes a plurality of said rotatable elements. 128.A support assistive device for a user having a pelvis with an anteriorsuperior iliac spine as described in claim 122, 124, or 125 furthercomprising a plurality of braking stations wherein said braking stationsbrake a plurality of said rotatable elements.
 129. A method ofsupporting a user having a pelvis in a support assistive devicecomprising: a. providing a support assistive device having a lower frameassembly and an upper frame assembly connected to the lower frameassembly by an elevation assembly; and b. vertically changing anelevation of said upper frame assembly while maintaining a horizontalorientation to an elevation that corresponds with said lower frameassembly.
 130. A method of supporting said user in said supportassistive device as described in claim 129 comprising the step ofproviding a plurality of rotatable elements attached to said lower frameassembly.
 131. A method of supporting said user in said supportassistive device as described in claim 130 further comprising the stepof repositioning at least one of said rotatable elements to asubstantially parallel plane with said lower frame assembly.
 132. Amethod of supporting said user in said support assistive device asdescribed in claim 130 further comprising the step of repositioning atleast one of said rotatable elements within an envelope of said upperand lower frame assemblies.
 133. A method of supporting said user insaid support assistive device as described in claim 129 wherein saidupper frame assembly is oriented in a substantially constant pelvicorientation and wherein step of folding comprises the step ofmaintaining said upper frame assembly in said substantially constantpelvic orientation while said step of folding occurs.
 134. A method ofsupporting said user in said support assistive device as described inclaim 133 wherein said step of maintaining said upper frame assembly insaid substantially constant pelvic orientation comprises utilizing afour bar linkage.
 135. A method of supporting said user in said supportassistive device as described in claim 134 wherein said step ofmaintaining said upper frame assembly in said substantially constantpelvic orientation comprises maintaining said upper frame substantiallylevel.
 136. A method of supporting said user in said support assistivedevice as described in claim 134 wherein said upper frame assemblycomprises a horizontal pelvis support element and further comprising thestep of lowering said horizontal pelvis support element relative to saidupper frame assembly.
 137. A support assistive device for a user havinga pelvis with an anterior superior iliac spine comprising: a. a frameassembly comprising: i. a lower frame assembly; ii. a lowerable upperframe assembly; and b. an elevation assembly connecting said upper frameassembly to said lower frame assembly wherein said elevation assembly isdesigned to allow said upper frame assembly to vertically changeelevation to a corresponding elevation with said lower frame assemblyand to maintain the upper frame assembly in a substantially constantpelvic orientation as said upper frame assembly changes elevation. 138.A support assistive device as described in claim 137 comprising aplurality of rotatable elements and a frame wheel repositionable supportconnecting said plurality of rotatable elements to said lower frameassembly wherein said frame wheel repositionable support is designed toallow said rotatable elements to be folded substantially within anenvelope of said frame assembly.
 139. A support assistive device asdescribed in claim 137 wherein said elevation assembly is designed tomaintain said upper frame assembly in a substantially level orientationat a variety of elevations.
 140. A support assistive device as describedin claim 137 wherein said elevation assembly is designed to be directlyand independently activated from a plurality of independent locations.141. A support assistive device for a user having a pelvis with ananterior superior iliac spine comprising: a. a lower frame assembly; b.an elevation assembly connected to said lower frame assembly; and c. anupper frame assembly having an adjustable height and connected to saidelevation assembly comprising: i. a vertical pelvis support element; andii. a horizontal pelvis support element designed to support primarily atleast one anterior superior iliac spine of said pelvis.
 142. A supportassistive device of claim 141 wherein said vertical pelvis supportelement and said horizontal pelvis support element further compriseadjustment elements that are adjustable independent of each other. 143.A support assistive device as described in claim 141 comprising arelative adjustment element to adjust the proximity of said verticalpelvis support element with respect to said horizontal pelvis supportelement.
 144. A support assistive device as described in claim 141comprising an adjustable tilt angle element connected to said verticalpelvis support element.
 145. A support assistive device as described inclaim 141 wherein said elevation assembly comprises a forcing element toassist in an adjustment of a relative height between said lower andupper frame assembly.
 146. A support assistive device as described inclaim 141 wherein said forcing element comprises a pressurized cylinder.147. A support assistive device as described in claim 141 wherein saidupper frame assembly comprises a first upper frame assembly heightadjustment element and a second upper frame assembly height adjustmentelement wherein a relative height of said first and second upper frameassembly height adjustment elements is adjustable.
 148. A supportassistive device as described in claim 147 wherein said first upperframe assembly height adjustment element and said second upper frameassembly height adjustment element further comprises holes and whereinsaid first upper frame assembly height adjustment element slidablyengages said second upper frame assembly height adjustment element andwherein said first upper frame assembly height adjustment element issecured by use of a height fixing element which engages at least onehole on said first upper frame assembly height adjustment elementaligned with at least one hole on said second upper frame assemblyheight adjustment element.
 149. A support assistive device as describedin claim 141 wherein said upper frame assembly comprises a pressurizedcylinder for adjusting the position of said upper frame assembly.
 150. Asupport assistive device as described in claim 147 wherein said upperframe assembly further comprises a collar clamp attached to said secondupper frame assembly height adjustment element.
 151. A support assistivedevice as described in claim 147 wherein second upper frame assemblyheight adjustment element comprises notched indentions for ease ofadjustment.
 152. A support assistive device as described in claim 141wherein said horizontal pelvis support element comprises a pressurizedcylinder to adjust said horizontal pelvis support element.
 153. Asupport assistive device as described in claim 141 wherein saidhorizontal pelvis support element comprises notched indentions for easeof adjustment.